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Cabot Trail Writers’ Festival

The Cabot Trail Writers’ Festival is an annual literary gathering in St. Ann’s, Nova Scotia, celebrating its 18th anniversary in 2026. Held from October 2 to 4 at the Gaelic College, the festival features a weekend of readings, workshops, and conversations with local and national authors. The event highlights the connection between storytelling and the Cape Breton landscape, concluding with a special outdoor session featuring Mi’kmaw storytellers.

Date
Oct 2-4, 2026
Location
St. Ann’s
Status
Upcoming
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Cabot Trail Writers’ Festival

Event summary

Highlights

  • Friday night opening reading series featuring a variety of genres and themes.
  • Closing ceremony at Skye River Trail in We’koqma’q with Mi’kmaw storytellers.
  • Panel discussion on mental health and anxiety featuring David A. Robertson.
  • Brunch with Whit Fraser discussing reconciliation and his life's experiences.
The 2026 edition of the Cabot Trail Writers’ Festival brings together a diverse lineup of prominent writers and storytellers. The program begins with a Friday night reading series and continues through the weekend with in-depth explorations of authors' lives and panel discussions. Featured guests for the 18th year include CBC Radio host Elamin Abdelmahmoud, author Catherine Hernandez, and notable Cape Breton talents such as Kate Beaton and Daniel MacIvor. Sessions cover a wide range of topics, including graphic novels and mental health awareness.

A key element of the festival is its integration with the natural environment of Cape Breton. Highlights include a brunch hosted by Alexander MacLeod with guest Whit Fraser and a closing event held along the Skye River Trail in We’koqma’q. This final gathering features Ann Joe sharing the work of her mother, Rita Joe, alongside other Mi’kmaw storytellers. Originally founded in 2009 in North River, the festival has grown into a significant community event that fosters cultural connection in a rural setting.

Practical details

Location described by the source
Gaelic College
www.invernessoran.ca
Area for browsing nearby events
St. Ann’s
Organizer — source statement
Rebecca Silver Slayter, executive director of the festival
www.invernessoran.ca
Admission — source statement
This is a free event open to everyone, offered in partnership with Dalhousie University’s Medical Humanities Program.
www.invernessoran.ca

Before attending

Check the sources below for current opening times, admission prices and registration requirements. A date range does not mean the event runs continuously or that admission is free.

Sources and further information

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Location map

Approximate area only; exact venue coordinates are not confirmed.

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